5 Days Tour From Fes To Sahara Desert

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga – The Middle Atlas and Cedar Forests

Departure from Fes – Into the Heart of Morocco

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Fes, one of Morocco’s most iconic cities known for its ancient medina and vibrant souks. As you leave Fes behind, the landscape quickly changes, leading you through the rolling hills of the Middle Atlas Mountains.

Ifrane – The Alpine Charm of Morocco

The first stop of the day is the charming town of Ifrane, often dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its Alpine-style architecture and cool climate. Ifrane offers a refreshing break with its clean streets, lush parks, and cedar trees, making it an ideal spot to stretch your legs before continuing the journey south.

Azrou – Exploring the Cedar Forest and Barbary Apes

As you continue through the Middle Atlas, the next stop is Azrou, where you’ll have the chance to visit the famous cedar forests and encounter Barbary apes in their natural habitat. The towering cedar trees and the playful apes provide a tranquil and unique experience as you immerse yourself in Morocco’s natural beauty.

Midelt – Lunch in the High Atlas Mountains

After passing through the green expanses of the Middle Atlas, you’ll arrive in Midelt, a small town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas mountains. Known for its apple orchards, Midelt serves as a perfect place to stop for lunch. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal in one of the town’s charming local restaurants before resuming your journey.

Ziz Valley – A Lush Oasis in the Desert

After lunch, the landscape begins to shift from mountainous terrain to the arid beauty of the desert. The journey takes you through the stunning Ziz Valley, a lush oasis lined with date palms and dotted with ancient kasbahs. As you drive through the valley, the stark contrast between the greenery and the desert landscape is truly captivating.

Arrival in Merzouga – Gateway to the Sahara

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the highest sand dunes in Morocco. These towering golden dunes mark the beginning of the Sahara Desert and set the stage for the next leg of your adventure.

Camel Trek to Desert Camp

As the sun begins to set, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. Riding camels through the vast expanse of golden sand dunes, you’ll feel transported to another world. The trek takes you to a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll spend the night in a nomadic tent under the stars.

Dinner and Berber Music Under the Stars

After settling into your desert camp, you’ll be treated to a traditional Moroccan dinner. The evening will be spent around a campfire, enjoying Berber music and the quiet beauty of the desert night. The clear, star-filled sky above the Sahara is a sight you’ll never forget.

Day 2: Exploring the Sahara and Surroundings

Sunrise Over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

The second day begins early, as you’ll wake up to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watching the first rays of sunlight stretch across the vast desert landscape is a truly magical experience.

4×4 Desert Adventure and Nomadic Culture

After breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll explore the Sahara further with a thrilling 4×4 drive. This adventure takes you deep into the desert, where you’ll visit Nomad camps, explore hidden oases, and discover fossil sites that reveal the Sahara’s ancient past. You’ll also stop in Khamlia Village, where you can experience the unique music and culture of the Gnawa people.

Return to Merzouga and Relaxation

After the 4×4 excursion, you’ll return to Merzouga for some relaxation. Spend the afternoon exploring the village or trying out sandboarding down the towering dunes. The desert offers a sense of peace and quiet that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Another Night in the Desert

For your second night, you’ll return to your desert camp or choose to stay in a local desert hotel. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and spend another peaceful night under the stars in the quiet stillness of the Sahara.

Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Through Todra Gorge

Farewell to the Desert

The third day starts with another stunning desert sunrise. After breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to the Sahara and begin the drive toward the Dades Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through a series of beautiful and culturally rich landscapes, including the historic town of Rissani, a former caravan stop on the ancient trade routes.

Todra Gorge – Towering Canyons and Scenic Beauty

One of the highlights of the journey is a visit to Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with towering red cliffs that reach up to 300 meters. The gorge is a favorite destination for hikers and climbers, but even a short walk along the riverbed provides stunning views of the sheer rock walls. Take your time to explore the area and soak in the natural beauty.

Arrival in Dades Valley – The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” due to the many traditional fortresses that line its landscape. The valley is known for its striking rock formations and lush greenery, providing a scenic contrast to the desert landscape you’ve left behind. You’ll spend the night in a guesthouse, where a traditional Moroccan dinner awaits.

Day 4: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate – A Journey Through History

Dades Valley and Skoura Palm Grove

After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey through the Dades Valley, passing traditional Berber villages and ancient kasbahs. The road leads you through the Skoura Palm Grove, a lush oasis filled with date palms and surrounded by historical kasbahs.

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Morocco

Your next major stop is Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” because of its role in the film industry. Ouarzazate is home to the Atlas Film Studios, where famous movies like “Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia” were filmed. You’ll also visit the stunning Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved examples of Moroccan earthen architecture.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

You’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse in Ouarzazate, enjoying a delicious Moroccan dinner and taking in the historical atmosphere of the city.

Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – Across the High Atlas Mountains

Tizi n’Tichka Pass – The Highest Road in Morocco

On the final day of your tour, you’ll cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road in Morocco, offering stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains. As you wind through the mountain roads, you’ll pass Berber villages and terraced fields, with plenty of opportunities for scenic photos.

Arrival in Marrakech – The Red City

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s most vibrant city. Known as the Red City, Marrakech is famous for its bustling Medina, lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and beautiful palaces and gardens. Your tour ends here, but there’s plenty to explore in this dynamic city.